While the nation reflects on the legacy of feminist icon Gloria Steinem, the Trump administration is seizing the moment to promote policies that strengthen families and restore traditional values. After the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, 13 states have enacted total or near‑total abortion bans, and four more limit abortions to about six weeks—often before a woman even knows she is pregnant. President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance have hailed these developments as victories for life and for the Constitution.
Heritage Foundation’s “Saving America by Saving the Family” report
Conservative scholars at the Heritage Foundation, including Delano Squires and Emma Waters, released a report titled “Saving America by Saving the Family.” The report argues that feminism has eroded the nation’s family fabric, contributing to lower birthrates, higher divorce rates, and a devaluation of marriage and motherhood. In their view, the recent legal victories on abortion have created an environment where young people can be encouraged to marry early, have more children, and prioritize family over career.
“Feminism did a grave disservice to women, and men by extension, by promoting the idea that marriage and family are lesser pursuits and should be deprioritized,” said Squires. The report even proposes a federal incentive: a $2,500 deposit into a government‑run investment account for any man or woman who marries before age 30.
Trump administration’s role
Administration officials have echoed these sentiments, framing the post‑Roe landscape as an opportunity to reinforce parental‑rights and protect unborn children. By supporting state‑level bans and encouraging policies that reward marriage and childbearing, the administration is aligning federal action with the Heritage Foundation’s vision of a stronger, more stable America.
Critics and counter‑arguments
Women’s advocacy groups, including the National Women’s Law Center, argue that curtailing reproductive rights and portraying feminism as an attack on families seeks to disempower women. Fatima Goss Graves, the Center’s CEO, contends that expanded paid family leave and affordable child‑care are the true ways to support families without forcing women to abandon careers.
While we respect the right of women to own property, obtain credit, vote, and work—as Heritage’s Squires affirms—we disagree with the notion that feminism alone is responsible for societal challenges. The data shows that women’s labor‑force participation has risen dramatically since the 1960s, and the nation’s economic vitality now depends on women’s continued contributions.
Historical context
Steinem’s early activism centered on securing reproductive choice as a cornerstone of women’s empowerment. Her 1969 awakening at a meeting on abortion rights led to a lifelong fight for women’s autonomy. Today, the conversation has shifted: many conservatives view the same rights through the lens of protecting unborn life and preserving the family unit.
Despite the backlash, scholars like Stanford professor Estelle Freedman note that feminism remains deeply embedded in American life and may be “unstoppable.” The economy, she says, relies on women’s continued participation in the workforce.
What this means for families
For faith‑centered families across the country, the current administration’s policies offer concrete steps to encourage marriage and childrearing—principles long championed by Christian teaching. By aligning federal incentives with traditional family values, the Trump administration is working to ensure that future generations inherit a society where fathers lead, mothers nurture, and children are welcomed and protected.
As the cultural debate continues, the Heritage Foundation’s report and the administration’s actions provide a roadmap for those who believe that a strong nation is built on strong families.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
